South AfricaJanuary 24, 2026, by Isa de Laat

#Islandlife at Stanley Island in South Africa on the Garden Route

Accommodation, Far Travels
South Africa, January 24, 2026, by Isa de Laat

#Islandlife at Stanley Island in South Africa on the Garden Route

We really tried...But if you think an island in South Africa is all about beaches and safaris, you're wrong Stanley Island not yet discovered. Just outside Plettenberg Bay (we should say 'Plett'), in the middle of the rippling Keurbooms River, lies a small piece of private wilderness. It feels a bit like being on an idyllic river in Thailand or Vietnam, or in a green landscape with tiny houses. Anyway, your arrival is an experience in itself. The island doesn't have a busy reception, but a private ferry that picks you up from the jetty.

It's certainly one of the most unique stops on the Garden Route. Zebras and other wildlife often graze peacefully around the lodges, placing you right in the heart of some of nature's most beautiful landscapes.

Stanley Island

Stanley Island

A small boat takes you across the calm Bitou River, staff wave at you, help with your luggage, and within minutes you're on land. Houseboats bob along the water, and wealthy homes are scattered around. Stanley Island is a world of its own. We could explain it in detail, but experiencing it is better. On the island itself, you walk along a green, arching path to your lodge.

Stanley Island boasts three boutique lodges, all named after the Stanley family and the South African landscape. Shorea Lodge is an ode to the woodworking and craftsmanship of grandfather David. Acacia Lodge is bright white and named after grandmother Barbara's Karoo farm. Elegia Lodge boasts the island's last remaining thatched roof, a tribute to Stanley Island's origins.

Booking.com helps you organize your entire trip: from booking accommodations and flights to arranging car rentals, airport taxis, and attractions.

Each lodge has a kitchenette and bathroom, but cooking is allowed, or you can visit the Stowaway restaurant, just a stone's throw away on the island. There are Sundowners at Stowaway: from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM with cocktails and sunset, Date Night Pastas: two pastas and a bottle of wine on Mondays, Midweek Margs: a 3-glass Margarita flight on Wednesdays, because sometimes Wednesdays need an extra reason. And there's Burger & Brew Duo: Thursday is comfort food day, with burgers and beer on island time. And the Island Beach Bar pops up from December to January, with cocktails, bites, and a view that is the epitome of vacation.

Stanley Island knows how to party, and every now and then there's a bash at the summer bar, but all in all, it's all about nature. The island is a small reserve, home to zebras, blue cranes, and even bushbucks. They're curious but still wild animals: no sudden movements, no touching, and always respectful observation.

What you can do? Canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, or simply exploring the island. The lapa Olea pool invites you for a refreshing dip, and braai areas scattered around the island offer private barbecues with views of grazing zebras. For ultimate relaxation, book a massage from Claire Kula, delivered directly to your lodge, from 60 minutes to two hours of pure serenity.

Stanley Island

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